<div><p>Are you an experienced lawyer with a passion for supporting children and young people with Special Educational Needs (SEN)? West Berkshire Councils Legal Services are seeking a dedicated and knowledgeable SEN Lawyer to join our dynamic team. In this role, you will be responsible for providing high-quality legal advice and support on SEN matters, working collaboratively with education, service and other key stakeholders to ensure the best outcomes for children and young people.</p><h3>About The Role</h3><p>As an SEN Lawyer, your key responsibilities will include:</p><ul><li>Providing legal advice and support on SEN issues, including appeals to the Special Educational Needs and Disability Tribunal</li><li>Conducting legal research and preparing legal documents, such as advice notes, contracts and agreements</li><li>Attending hearings and representing the Council in legal proceedings</li><li>Collaborating with internal stakeholders to ensure compliance with legal obligations</li><li>Contributing to the development and implementation of policies and procedures relating to SEN</li></ul><h3>About You</h3><p>The ideal candidate will possess the following skills and attributes:</p><ul><li>Qualified solicitor or barrister with a valid practising certificate</li><li>Experience in providing legal advice on SEN issues within a local authority or similar environment</li><li>Sound knowledge of relevant legislation, including the Equality Act 2010 and Special Educational Needs Code of Practice</li><li>Strong analytical and research skills, with the ability to interpret complex legal information</li><li>Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build effective working relationships</li><li>Ability to work independently, manage a diverse caseload and meet deadlines</li><li>Team player with a positive and collaborative approach</li></ul><h3>Benefits</h3><ul><li>Flexible working wherever possible between the hours of 07.00-21.00</li><li>Hybrid working wherever possible working 40% in the office</li><li>Access to a wide range of training and development opportunities</li><li>Generous Local Government pension scheme</li><li>Family friendly policies</li><li>A range of local discounts</li><li>Wellbeing Programme including Employee Assistance Programme and employee benefits</li><li>You will also be entitled to a generous annual leave entitlement starting at 29 days per annum (plus public holidays) Rising by an additional 5 days after 5 years service.</li></ul><h3>Sensitive Post</h3><p>The post-holder is restricted from engaging in any prescribed political activities and from holding political office, in accordance with the Local Government Housing Act 1989.</p><h3>Equal Opportunities</h3><p>The Council supports equal opportunity of employment, and positively encourages applications from people who fall within any of the nine protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010.</p></div>